26-Year-Old’s ‘Ego Tequila’ Is Texas’ First Black Woman-Owned Tequila Brand

A Black woman entrepreneur has become Texas’ first Black woman-owned tequila brand at the tender age of 26.

According to Travel Noire, the brand, Ego Tequila, is owned and operated by its founder, Rikki Kelly, who said she launched Ego Tequila to introduce more drinkers to tequila.

“I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur and create a brand that people could relate to,” Kelly told Dallas News. “Since I enjoy tequila, I decided to bring a good one to market for other people to enjoy.”

According to BevNet, Kelly, who started this project when she was just 24 years old, is the first Black woman tequila founder in the state of Texas, and only the third in the United States. Ego Tequila is sourced from the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, and is produced from 100% Blue Weber Agave, made with natural volcanic spring water, and distilled in alembic stills.

Kelly spoke about what inspired her to start her own tequila brand.

“When I created Ego Tequila, my goals were to make sure it was smooth in quality, approachable for newcomers and tequila loyalists, and out of the ordinary. I believe I understood the assignment.”

The name of the tequila brand, Ego, was inspired by the experience of one drinking well-made tequila. It makes one feel like a different person, invoking their tequila-infused alter ego.

The Ego Tequila brand is 40% alcohol by volume and is available in the 750 ml size with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $29.99 for Blanco and $31.99 for Reposado. The brand is based in Fort Worth, TX, imported from Mexico, and distributed by Texas Tru Distribution.

The Ego Tequila website gives a description of their product, “Our high-quality 100% agave spirit is produced in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, and is perfect in cocktails or as a celebratory shot. We are dedicated to providing the consumer with a high-value spirit that is exciting for newcomers and tequila aficionados, alike.”